Dr. Ryan David Alkins – Neurosurgeon | Kingston, ON

Dr. Ryan David Alkins is a dedicated Neurosurgeon specializing in the surgical management of disorders affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nervous system in adult patients. Practicing at William Osler Health Centre in Kingston, ON, he is an integral part of the local surgical and medical community. He provides comprehensive surgical care for a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves, including trauma, tumors, and degenerative diseases. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that all patients receive safe, effective, and patient-centered neurosurgical treatment.

Dr. Alkins graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine in Canada. With over 9 years of experience as a Neurosurgeon since 2015, he has developed a deep expertise in the field. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his comprehensive training and commitment to excellence in neurosurgical care.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient safety, precision surgery, and the utilization of advanced technology to optimize outcomes. He is dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive treatment plans. Dr. Alkins is committed to educating his patients about their conditions and available treatment options, providing care in English and fostering a supportive environment for those undergoing neurosurgical procedures.

Dr. Ryan Alkins surgically treats a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Functional Neurosurgery & Neuropathic Pain Conditions

• Chronic Neuropathic Pain (select cases for neurostimulation): Persistent pain due to nerve damage, where spinal cord stimulation or other neuromodulation techniques might be considered.
• Movement Disorders (Parkinson's, Essential Tremor, Dystonia - for DBS evaluation): Evaluation for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery for patients with movement disorders not adequately controlled by medication.
• Medically Refractory Epilepsy (for surgical evaluation): Epilepsy that continues despite trials of multiple anti-seizure medications, prompting consideration for surgical interventions.

Spinal Column & Spinal Cord Disorders

• Spinal Cord Tumors (Intramedullary, Extramedullary): Abnormal growths within or surrounding the spinal cord that may require surgical removal.
• Spondylolisthesis: A spinal condition where one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it, sometimes requiring fusion.
• Spinal Fractures & Instability (Traumatic or Pathologic): Breaks in the vertebrae or spinal instability often requiring surgical stabilization.

Cerebrovascular Disorders (Requiring Surgical Intervention)

• Cerebral Aneurysms (Unruptured & Ruptured): A bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, which can leak or rupture, causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
• Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding into the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane, often caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
• Cavernous Malformations (Cavernomas): Clusters of abnormal, dilated blood vessels that can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may cause bleeding or seizures.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurosurgical condition, please consult with Dr. Ryan Alkins.

• Chiari Malformation Decompression: Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the cerebellum and brainstem caused by Chiari malformation.
• Management of Brachial Plexus & Lumbosacral Plexus Injuries (Surgical Repair/Grafting in select cases): Complex surgical interventions for injuries to major nerve networks.
• Carotid Endarterectomy / Carotid Artery Stenting Coordination: Surgical removal of plaque from the carotid artery or stenting (often by vascular surgeons/interventionalists) to prevent stroke, with neurosurgical consultation for specific cases.
• Non-Operative Management of Select Neurosurgical Conditions: Providing conservative management options when surgery is not immediately indicated, including observation, medication management referrals, and pain management strategies.
• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS): Utilizing specialized techniques and smaller incisions to treat spinal conditions, aiming for faster recovery and less tissue disruption.
• Syrinx (Syringomyelia) Decompression Surgery: Procedures to drain or shunt fluid-filled cavities (syrinxes) within the spinal cord.
• Pre-Surgical Planning & Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation to determine surgical candidacy, optimize patient condition before surgery, and discuss potential risks and benefits.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Neurosurgical treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Alkins for care relevant to your specific condition.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurosurgical care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

William Osler Health Centre in Kingston's Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood serves as the primary location for Dr. Alkins’s neurosurgical practice. The facility is a key medical center within Kingston, offering specialized neurosurgical units and outpatient services. The Kingston Centre, which is currently undergoing redevelopment, provides state-of-the-art facilities tailored to neurosurgical care. The hospital is easily accessible via Kingston Transit, with the building being wheelchair accessible. Patients can find metered street parking and nearby lots for convenient access. The practice is committed to providing accessible, patient-focused neurosurgical services in a modern, supportive environment.

Are consultations and neurosurgical procedures with Dr. Alkins, a Neurosurgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurosurgeon like Dr. Alkins, as well as most diagnostic imaging reviews and provincially insured neurosurgical procedures (e.g., for tumors, spine conditions, aneurysms), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some advanced technologies, specific implantable devices, or purely elective/cosmetic procedures may have different coverage. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Alkins's office, the hospital's financial services, or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) prior to any major procedure.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Alkins, a Neurosurgeon?

Yes, a referral from your family physician, an emergency room physician, or another specialist (like a neurologist or oncologist) is almost always required to see a Neurosurgeon such as Dr. Alkins. Neurosurgical conditions are typically complex and require initial assessment and investigation before a neurosurgical consultation is appropriate. The referral ensures coordinated care and that you are directed to the right specialist.

What types of spine problems does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Alkins treat surgically?

Neurosurgeons like Dr. Alkins who specialize in spine surgery treat a variety of conditions affecting the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (low-back) spine. These can include herniated discs causing nerve compression, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra), spinal fractures due to trauma, spinal tumors, and spinal deformities. Surgical procedures aim to decompress nerves, stabilize the spine, or remove tumors.

What does a Neurosurgeon like Dr. Alkins specialize in?

A Neurosurgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the surgical treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, cerebrovascular system (blood vessels of the brain and spine), and peripheral nerves. He is a Neurosurgeon specializing in surgical treatment of the brain, spine, and nerves. Dr. Alkins performs a range of surgical procedures to address these conditions.

What are some common procedures a Neurosurgeon performs?

Neurosurgeons perform a wide variety of intricate procedures. Common surgeries include craniotomies (opening the skull) for brain tumor removal, aneurysm clipping, or hematoma evacuation; spinal surgeries like laminectomies or discectomies for nerve decompression, and spinal fusions for instability; and placement of shunts for hydrocephalus. Dr. Alkins would be able to discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition. Many neurosurgeons also have subspecialty interests, such as pediatric neurosurgery, spine surgery, or vascular neurosurgery.

William Osler Health Centre
76 Stuart St
Kingston, ON K7L 2V7

Phone: (613) 548-6666 | Fax: (613) 548-1346

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Alkins is a licensed Neurosurgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Alkins for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Alkins-Ryan-David/0242104-86927